Trout Fishing Opportunities Await Anglers at Ohio’s Castalia Fish Hatchery
OutdoorHub 12.01.11
Columbus, OH – Controlled trout-fishing opportunities on Cold Creek, one of Ohio’s most unique streams, awaits fishing enthusiasts who enter a special lottery conducted by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.
A half-mile section of the creek, located at the Castalia State Fish Hatchery in Erie County, will again be open to a limited number of anglers on selected dates between April 2 and November 2 next year. Anglers interested in fishing the stream must apply online and pay a non-refundable $3 application fee between December 1, 2011 and January 31, 2012 in order to be eligible for the random drawing. Applicants can apply on the Division of Wildlife website at wildohio.com.
Only one application is allowed per person. Anglers age 16 and older must hold a valid fishing license in order to apply. Application information can be obtained from the ODNR Division of Wildlife website wildohio.com.
Two seasons will be offered. Adults and teens 16 and older from April 2 through June15 and again from August 20 through November 2. A second season will be held for those 15 and younger from June 18 to August 17. Individuals selected to participate in either season will be allowed to bring two adults (includes 16 and older) and three youths age 15 and younger (no more than six people total). Anglers 16 and older must hold a valid fishing license in order to participate in this event. Participation is determined by a computer-generated, random drawing, which is held in early February. The results of the drawing will be posted on the division’s website at wildohio.com. Applicants not chosen will not be notified.
Special fishing rules will be in effect for this event to ensure that a quality fishing experience is maintained throughout the season. This includes a no catch-and-release rule; anglers keep all fish they catch. The daily bag limit will be five trout per angler.
Anglers will be required to check in at the hatchery upon arrival and check out at the end of their session. Fishing sessions will be open from 7 a.m. to noon. Anglers age 16 and older will need a valid 2012 Ohio fishing license.
An Ohio resident annual fishing license costs $19; a one-day fishing license costs $11. Those who purchase a one-day fishing license may later return it to a license agent to receive credit toward purchase of an annual fishing license.
The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
